Pittsburgh Steelers keep playoff hopes alive with 17-10 victory against resting Baltimore Ravens | NFL News – Times of India

NEW DELHI: In a critical regular-season finale, the Pittsburgh Steelers secured a 17-10 victory over the Baltimore Ravens, bringing them one step closer to a playoff berth. Mason Rudolph played a crucial role, connecting with Diontae Johnson for a go-ahead 71-yard touchdown. Rudolph demonstrated precision, completing 18 of 20 passes for 152 yards. Meanwhile, running back Najee Harris contributed significantly, amassing 112 yards and scoring a rushing touchdown on 26 carries.
The Steelers, with a 10-7 record, are now positioned to clinch a playoff spot. Their fate depends on the outcome of other games; a tie between the Indianapolis Colts and the Houston Texans on Saturday night would secure their playoff berth. If not, a loss by the Jacksonville Jaguars or Buffalo Bills on Sunday would also propel the Steelers into the playoffs.

Facing adverse weather conditions with pouring rain, the Steelers outgained the Ravens 289-224. The Ravens, already securing the No. 1 playoff seed in the AFC, opted to rest key players including Lamar Jackson. Backup quarterback Tyler Huntley threw for 146 yards and a touchdown.
Despite the victory, the Steelers faced a setback as star pass rusher T.J. Watt left the game in the third quarter with a knee injury. Before his departure, Watt recorded two sacks, reaching a remarkable 19 for the season for the second time in his career. Notably, Watt’s older brother, J.J. Watt, is the only other player with multiple 19-sack seasons.
Pittsburgh’s offense showcased its strength with a 76-yard drive in 12 plays during the second quarter, culminating in Harris’ 6-yard rushing touchdown. Rudolph’s decisive go-ahead touchdown pass to Johnson occurred early in the fourth quarter, solidifying their lead.
Despite a late field goal by the Ravens’ Justin Tucker, the Steelers held on for the win, preventing a last-ditch comeback with a successful defense against an onside kick. The victory places the Steelers on the cusp of a playoff berth, pending the results of other crucial matchups in the league.
(With Reuters inputs)